Principal Consultant - Planning & EIA

Overview

Location: Manchester (Hybrid Working Available)

Company Size: Fewer than 100 employees UK-wide

A respected environmental and planning consultancy is looking for a Principal Consultant to join its Manchester-based sister office. This senior-level role offers the opportunity to lead Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and planning projects across the North of England and beyond, with a focus on renewables, infrastructure, and property development. You'll play a pivotal role in delivering complex projects, mentoring a growing team, and driving strategic growth - all within a flexible and supportive working environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee EIA and planning projects from inception to completion
• Prepare and review environmental statements, technical reports, and management plans
• Ensure projects meet quality, budget, and timeline targets
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external specialists

Team Management

• Line manage and support consultants
• Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing
• Assist with resource planning and workload allocation

Client & Commercial Development

• Act as the primary contact for key clients
• Lead on bids, tenders, and fee proposals
• Identify new business opportunities in energy, infrastructure, and property sectors

Strategic Input

• Provide expert advice within your specialism
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the planning and EIA team
• Represent the consultancy at industry events and client meetings

About You

• Extensive experience in UK-based EIA and planning consultancy
• Strong grasp of environmental and planning legislation
• Confident in team leadership and workload coordination
• Commercially astute with excellent client-facing skills
• Degree-qualified in a relevant field (e.g. Environmental Science, Planning, Geography)

What's On Offer

• Hybrid working with flexibility around office and site visits
• Opportunities to lead high-profile projects and shape team growth
• Supportive leadership and clear career progression
• Diverse client portfolio across energy, infrastructure, and property

NEXT STEPS

Click apply - I review applications as received. I will be in touch to discuss the role/company in finer details - we will ensure that you are comfortable moving forwards and if not, there is no expectation to proceed. Your CV will not be shared without your consent.